July 16, 2018

I am in need of an attitude check this morning.  My body is hurting and its hard to breathe.  It felt like the longest mile just heading to the bathroom.

I knew there would be days like this but they are not welcomed at all.  I want to hang a sign out that says “No pain and discomfort allowed!”.  I want to raise my fist and say, “Ain’t got time for this!”.

So what’s a girl to do when morning comes and the attitude has already started?

For me it means starting with prayer.  In my case, this morning, it meant forcing myself to pray.  Just one determined step of obedience.  This is how it went down this morning:

Praying first with confession and surrender.  Confess that my attitude isn’t right even when another voice in my head says “You have every right to feel this way”.  Confess that I don’t have the strength in myself to handle this.  Confession and surrender help me to get myself out of the way so I can focus better.

Next came thanksgiving.  Thanking God for allowing me to breathe at all.  For having excellent medical care.  For having a surgery date in 16 days – yes, of course I’m counting!  For having an amazing support group of family and friends surrounding me.

Praising followed thanksgiving.  Praising God and remembering who He is and how He has been faithful in my life.  How He always keeps His promises.  How He has never let me down.

Praying like this helps to unclog the pity-party dam that has built up and lets the awareness of blessings flow again.  Ain’t got time for pity-parties!  I’ve got a whole day of walking with the Lord ahead of me.

Lord, please forgive my selfish attitude this morning.  My life is full of amazing blessings that you have provided.  I pray that no root of frustration or bitterness would take root in my heart.  Give me wisdom to know when to rest and when to take steps forward.  I know I need your strength to get through this.  One day at a time.  One thought at a time.  One blessing at a time.  God, you are good all the time.